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A&O Sherman
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Early careers, London

Introduction

In our London office we provide a comprehensive range of opportunities designed to support and develop future legal talent. With exceptional training, pastoral support and continuous development we offer a world class platform to ignite your career.

Whether you're at school or university, or have already graduated, if a career at a world-class law firm excites you, we've got an opportunity for you.

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To excel, we must belong

At A&O Shearman, our culture is built on growth and well-being to make sure that every person, from intern to partner, has the support to excel. From mentorship and collaborative working to inclusive benefits and diversity networks, we are proud of the company culture we have fostered. A culture of belonging, openness, support and compassion.

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More than just a place to work

At A&O Shearman, we know that to achieve unparalleled outcomes for our clients, we need to nurture an environment where our people are supported to excel, and truly feel they belong.

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We invest in you

We offer exceptional professional and personal development - providing training, mentoring and practical support. You will have access to mentors and other dedicated points of contact to ensure that you receive the best pastoral care possible. With us, you will constantly be learning and growing.

Our opportunities

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    First-Year Programme

    There’s no better place to learn about the legal world than our First-Year Programme.

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    Vacation Schemes

    Experience global success first-hand - our vacation schemes give you a real taste of our supportive, dynamic and global culture.

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    Direct Entry Training Contract

    Our training contracts are designed to continually help you evolve and reach your full potential.

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    Law Tech and Operations Graduate Programme

    If you're unsure where you fit into tech, this is your chance to explore.

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    Black Student Lawyer Programme

    Our Black Student Lawyer Programme for first-year undergraduates provides real-world experience, practical skills and support.

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    Solicitor Apprenticeship

    Our solicitor apprenticeships give students the opportunity to become first-class lawyers over six years, combining study with hands-on practical experience.

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    Step into Law Scheme

    Our Step into Law Scheme is an interactive, inclusive, and insightful series of workshops and group mentoring sessions.

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    Smart Start Programme

    Smart Start provides unique work experience for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds to kick-start a career in law.

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Welcome to our law career guide

Whether you’re applying to A&O Shearman, or any other law firm, this hub will provide you with advice, tips and key information on application processes, interview preparation, and assessment days.

EXPLORE OUR LAW CAREER GUIDE

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More than just a place to work

Our head office in London has fantastic facilities to support both staff and clients to excel, in and out of work. The moment you step out of the office, you can browse the many surrounding shops, wander through Spitalfields Market, or enjoy a great choice of places to eat and drink.

Our first-class, on-site fitness centre offers:

  • a fully equipped gym;
  • fresh towels provided daily;
  • a multi-purpose sports hall where you can play basketball, three-a-side football and table tennis;
  • fitness studio hosting classes such as spinning, yoga and Zumba;
  • a sauna;
  • free squash courts at Slim Jims, five minutes from the office; and
  • a number of sports activities, including football on a Wednesday evening and rugby at the weekend, with regular fixtures against other firms.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WORKING IN LONDON

Our frequently asked questions

Will AI review my application?

We do not use AI at any point during our recruitment process; all assessments and decisions are made by our team.

We know there are differing opinions surrounding the use of AI when creating an application, so we want to share some guidance on what we believe is the best and most suitable way to utilise AI. We’re not prescribing a list of dos and don’ts but instead offering some insight and guidance for you to take forward.

OUR ADVICE FOR USING AI IN THE APPLICATION PROCESS

How many applications can I submit per year?

Candidates can only apply for one opportunity each recruitment cycle.

All opportunities require you to submit an online application and complete the online experience. If you do not pass the online experience, you will have to wait until the next recruitment cycle to reapply.

What are the academic requirements for your programmes?

Our academic requirements are AAB (136 UCAS points) or equivalent at A-Level and on track for/achieved a 2:1 undergraduate degree. Our academic requirements are AAB (136 UCAS points) or equivalent at A-Level and on track for/achieved a 2:1 undergraduate degree. We do take into account mitigating circumstances, including those relating to a disability, which may have affected your grades either at school or university and there is a space on the application form to include these.

Do you mind where I study the PGDL, LPC or SQE?

We require those who have accepted a training contract prior to starting law school to study the PGDL at BPP Law School (either in London or at a UK regional centre).

If you are joining us from September 2024 onwards, you will train via the SQE route and will do so at BPP Law School in Holborn, alongside peers joining your intake at A&O Shearman. We have partnered with BPP to develop a bespoke SQE preparation course. Much of the course is taught in person (with face-to face teaching).

What is the structure of the SQE preparation course?

The SQE preparation course is a 12-month course during which you will prepare for, and sit, the SQE1 and SQE2 assessments. The first 15 weeks of the course will be spent preparing for the SQE1 assessment, with the following part of the course focusing on SQE2 preparation and the delivery of our bespoke ‘Essentials for practice’ course content, to really prepare you for life at A&O Shearman and the transition to starting your training with us.

If you are a non-law graduate, you will complete the PGDL before the SQE preparation course.

Do you provide financial assistance through law school?

Yes. When you accept our offer of a training contract, we will provide financial support for your law school studies.

I have a disability, are you able to provide adjustments and/or support?

Yes, we provide adjustments because we want you to be able to demonstrate your full potential during the recruitment process. It is advisable to inform us as soon as possible about the adjustments you may require in order to ensure that they are implemented on time.

Who can I contact about my application and disability?

If you have a specific question relating to disability, please contact danielle.fulham@aoshearman.com, who is our disability expert.

All conversations will be confidential.

Get in touch

If you have any unanswered questions, please contact the early careers recruitment team by clicking the button below.

CONTACT US

We also recommend you visit our social media channels; these cover a range of topics and applicant queries:

Or have a listen to our podcast:

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